Fractures of the hip in the tenth decade of life. Findings in 25 cases

A report is given of the results of treatment of 25 patients with a fracture of the hip who were over 90 years of age. Twenty three patients were subjected to operation: 5 of these died in hospital, but not as a direct consequence of operation. Of the 18 patients discharged after an average hospital stay of 32 days, 13 were able to walk independently at home, on the average for over two years. It is concluded that surgical treatment of fractures of the hip in very old people is advisable and useful, provided they are in reasonable general condition and do not exhibit dementia.